Thursday, October 23, 2008
This is for you
This is for those of you who have "been there and done that" and are a quitter when it comes to drinking. Feel free to write your thoughts, your struggles, your hopes, your accomplishments. I have been sober since Sept 23, 2006. My life is now full of all the things that I missed out on for many years. I am no longer clouded with judgment, I am free to be alive.
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Hey there :) I'm first! lol
ReplyDeleteWow this looks great! Nice and bright and easy to read. :) I hope everyone finds it!
ReplyDeleteDay 45
ReplyDeleteHello. Bell, Richard, looks like they pulled the plug again on our last blog. I hope you find this one.
Jasmine, hello! I've read your posts on another blog. I'm glad to see that you are still doing well.
Roger
Day 45
ReplyDeleteBell~ I’m trying to figure out what would motivate someone to offer a spiked drink to someone who is quitting alcohol. I have a low regard for people like that, regardless of whether they proclaim to be a “friend”. Thankfully, you were alert and didn’t fall for her tricky maneuver.
**
I’m learning a lot from the book, Rational Steps to Quitting Alcohol. The subtitle is, When AA Doesn’t Work For You. The theme of the book is self-reliance, rational thinking, and accepting responsibility for your actions and your life without blaming your past, your family, or your genes.
**
Time for the trick or treaters. Happy Halloween! Ooooh!
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 76.
Hello fellow sober goohls......(sp?) Hope everyone is having fun~ Thanks Roger, will check online. Bell, that woman is really ........a vampire.....Had that happen to me 10 years ago. I was on a 3 month roll when a friend gave me a alcoholic beer instead of a NA beer. When I confronted him he told me to relax, and that I can have a few beers with friends- some folks just don't get it~These days I drink water everywhere-keeps life simple!
All the best to all!
Richard
Hi Gang,
ReplyDeleteDay 77
Love the new Blog! Doing well over here-Hope everyone is well~
Best,
Richard
Day 46
ReplyDeleteRichard~ Yes, the new blog is great! I am optimistic this one will be here for a long time.
Okay, Bell, you told us about this blog. Where are you?
I learned something today from my wife. I told her that the reason I have been getting frustrated so easily, over minor things, was due to having quit drinking alcohol. I told her that I had depended on alcohol my entire life to cope with the stress of everyday living. When I was drinking, I was able to “reset” every weekend by getting smashed, and then I could make it through the week to the next weekend.
She told me that I need to “quiet my mind” with various techniques such as meditation and relaxation exercises. She said that when you quit an addiction, the “noise” in your mind intensifies, and you need to find a way to calm it down. As she was telling me this, I remembered a book that I had read many years ago, Release From Nervous Tension, by David Harold Fink, MD, a psychiatrist. I dragged out the old book, and then remembered that his recommended solution for “quieting the mind” is Self-Directed Relaxation. It is too lengthy to go into here, but it involves lying in a quiet, darkened room, and methodically relaxing every part of your body by talking to it during breath exhalation, saying, “Let go. Let go, etc.”.
Anyway, I am re-reading the book, and starting doing 30 minutes of Self-Directed Relaxation daily. I think this is going to help tremendously. I am going to follow my wife’s recommendation, and improve myself “within”. The book is old (Copyright 1943, 1953, and 1962), but excellent. You can still get it on Amazon, used, for $.30 plus $3.99 shipping.
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 78. A good day. Thanks Roger~ "able to “reset” every weekend by getting smashed, and then I could make it through the week to the next weekend." Really well said, that is exactly what I used to do.
Had a great day. 1 1/2 hour Yoga class, 1 hour on the stationary bike(23 miles) .....besides feeling a bit sore I am feeling really great!!!!
Best,
Richard
Day 47
ReplyDeleteI'm feeling great, too. For the last two days, I did the 30-minute directed-relaxation exercise. Actually, what I did was put on a relaxation CD, turned the lights out, and lay on the bed for 30-minutes. I took a few deep breaths, and "directed" myself to relax. It worked! I was VERY relaxed. The CD I used is entitled "Real Relaxation" from Sharper Image. It is twelve different tracks of relaxation music, each one from a different part of the world.
Before doing the relaxation exercise, I went to the gym for an hour, spent 30 minutes on a cross-trainer, and then worked on a few machines. I do this every other day.
Roger
Richard, I see that Michelle has posted on the "Quitters1dayatatime" blog on this website. Let's switch over to that one, okay?
ReplyDeleteRoger
holy cow what have I created. This is wonderful. you guys can write where ever. I am still trying to figure out this blog. I'll catch up. I'm glad that you guys are here.
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteDay 80.
(Just lost comment-and am reposting.) Had a Great day, Up at 5:00 to vote for 6:00-felt great!!!(I remember stumbling home drunk at 5:00...) Smart move Roger- I had those feelings for a minute while walking home from the gym. "go to a bar...watch election......"
ended up at home, treated myself to a great meal. Really inspired to keep moving forward!
All the best,
Richard
you guys are doing great. I watched the election from the gym, cause It was on every Tv when I showed up for work. I am taking my daughter w/ me tonight. kick boxing class
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteDay 90.
I Feel great. Really pleased with my new life-Turned down a College Football game this weekend. Thought it through- I know for a fact that it is going to be a non-stop beerfest so I opted to decline the invitation. Roger, it seems you are into reading various books on how to stop drinking. Have you read "Seven weeks To Sobriety" by Joan Mathews Larson? Interesting read- I am always interested in the brain and how to help it function better. Found this today online:http://www.gobrainev.com/
Also, an interesting clip on a new health discovery http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3jekHL57oo
Michelle posted last on Nov 10th-based on her post, I imagine she has a lot going on~
Best,
Richard
Day 176
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean. I’ve experienced some depression as well. I think it goes with the territory, of quitting drinking. I think that a possible low-cost solution would be to get started in Alcoholics Anonymous. Read the description of the book, Getting Started in AA, on Amazon. You can actually read the book online by googling “getting started in AA”, and selecting the books.google.com entry.
For years, I have thought about going to AA meetings, but have not mustered up the courage to follow through. I will damn sure do it though, if that is the only way I can refrain from going back to drinking again. For me, I think it is about time to drag my ass to a meeting, and start working the program. There are people there who have many years of sobriety. I have a feeling that this would a solution to the depression problem, and other problems as well.
What do you think about this idea?
Best regards,
Roger
Day 178
ReplyDeleteThe book, Getting Started in AA" looked so good that I sent away for it. I'll read it, study it before going to a meeting.
Looking forward to yoga today.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 195
ReplyDeleteThere! This one has a normal-width window, and will work just fine. Hope to see you here, Richard.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 227. Hi Roger~ Hope all is well. Been working hard over here. I've been working (teaching music) with inner city kids. Takes a LOT of energy BUT is a good thing. Trying to think of creative ways to make a buck.........I've backed way off on performing-mainly because I used to always drink to play/perform (stage nerves) I still play the horn every day- I am in the process of reprogramming my mind(Mind Power) and how I perceive performing for people and what my motivation is to play the horn. The book Beyond Success...is excellent-it has really given me a lot of insight. Walking out on stage seeking approval, worried about wether I am good enough, comparing myself to others etc....all old kickbacks from childhood.
Thanks again for the recommendation!
All the best,
Richard
Day 196
ReplyDeleteRichard, I think it is great that you are teaching music to inner city kids. This is making a contribution to society, beyond entertainment. Perhaps you can expand in the direction of teaching music, instead of performing. With your educational credentials, maybe you should explore teaching music in high schools, community colleges, or universities. I’m sure you could create an impressive résumé. Also, I wonder if there would be any money in creating Music Instruction DVD’s.
I’m doing great. I had a good yoga workout today – switched to Gurmukh from Ravi Singh. Her workout video is a little more aerobic – very invigorating.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 230. Finishing up another week. Working hard with the kids. Really
Enjoying Spring. Feels great to be clean and sober with all of the buds opening up-NEW LIFE!
All the best,
Richard
Day 198
ReplyDeleteIf you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
(from Desiderata)
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 231. Desiderata is right. Such a big one for me as well.....I am hoping that by being more aware of this (and other childish behavior) it will gradually "slip away"
"Beyond Success and Failure" talks about this extensively. No so much though how to let it go. I am hoping that mind power and daily affirmations will keep melting this away. I am checking out a couple of programs that claim that can help balance both sides of the brain.www.centerpointe.com and http://www.gobrainev.com/
Had a pretty rough day today, especially after seeing the news about Binghamton, NY. Found myself feeling angry and for the first time in a while thought about going to a bar. Thankfully it past.
All the best,
Richard
Day 200
ReplyDeleteIn terms of "letting go", check out The Sedona Method at www.sedona.com and The Release Technique at www.releasetechnique.com.
Going to a bar because of anger, frustration, disappointment, depression, or anything else is OUT! Instead: Take a shower. Go for a walk or jog. Do some yoga. Go to the gym. Punch a bag. Yell. Sing a song. Take some deep breaths.
We are going to deal with this dysfunctional world in ways other than heading to a bar, or doing anything else that is harmful to us. Drinking alcohol, when you know you have a problem with alcohol, is analogous to inflicting self-injury in the same way some teenagers do by cutting or burning themselves. It is self destructive.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 235. Thanks for the links/info Roger. Checking out "The Sedona Method". Moving along on this end. Hit the Gym today. Burned 700 cals.
on the bike etc....
All the best,
Richard
Day 203
ReplyDeleteRough day for me. After fighting with doctor and insurance company about billing, I had a strong urge all day to go into party mode tonight, drink myself into a stupor, to anaesthetize my brain and stressed out body. The thing that saved me was yoga. I decided to do an hour of yoga, and then go for a jog. After working the Gurmukh DVD, I felt great, and didn’t feel the need to go jog. I dodged that bullet, but have to make some changes. I am going to offload much of the responsibility about financial matters onto my wife. She is younger, and, I believe, can handle matters such as billing disputes better than I can.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 236. I guess we have to accept the fact that their will be days in our lives like this from time to time. I guess the trick is to get through them as best as we can. The strategies you shared above are excellent~
Thanks-
All the best,
Richard
Day 204
ReplyDeleteBack to normal. After analyzing yesterday’s events, I can see that I’ve definitely made progress in coping with difficult situations. In the past, I very well might have said to hell with it, and gone back to drinking. I will remember that yoga saved the day for me. Going to the gym, or jogging, probably would have yielded the same results.
So, in the future if I am getting stressed, I will say, “Excuse me, I have to take a one-hour time out for some physical activity before I can continue talking with you about this.”
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 237. A Good Day. Gym/Yoga. I've been on a Fresh Grapefruit Juice binge. A nice substitute for dessert! (Ice Cream)
All the best,
Richard
Day 206
ReplyDeleteHere is my wife's Eat-All-You-Want Chicken-Veggie soup recipe. We are working on our latest batch now. (This is a lot of soup!):
4 tablespoons Lime Pepper Seasoning
2 Green Peppers
6 Green Onions
½ head Cabbage
1 bunch Parsley
1 bunch Cilantro
1 bunch Broccoli
1 bunch Celery
2 cups of fresh Mushrooms
4 Tomatoes
4 cloves Garlic
8 medium sized Carrots
5 skinless, boneless Chicken Breasts
½ medium sized white Onion
½ gallon V8 veggie juice (low sodium)
Trim all fat from chicken breasts and soak overnight in water; drain; discard water. (This soaking is to get rid of the sodium.) Cook chicken breasts in spring water as follows: bring water to a boil, add chicken breasts, and bring water to a boil again. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 40 minutes. Cut-up the chicken. Save the chicken broth to add to the soup.
Use a 12-quart pot and a frying pan.
Add 2 teaspoons of olive oil to frying pan. Cut up parsley, green and white onions, and tomatoes – put half in the frying pan and half in the pot. Cut up everything else, and put it into the pot. (Do not put the cooked chicken into the pot, yet.) Add the chicken broth to the pot, and add the ½ gallon of V8 veggie juice to the pot. Add additional spring water to bring the pot to about the 10-quart level.
Bring pot to a boil. Fast boil for 10 minutes, then medium boil for an additional 15 minutes. While pot contents are cooking, heat the frying pan and cook the contents to a mushy state.
After the 25 minutes of cooking the pot contents, add the frying pan contents to the pot, and add the cut-up chicken. Bring the pot to a boil again, and boil for an additional 3 minutes.
Enjoy the soup by adding salt to suit your taste. Eat all you want and don’t worry about gaining weight. Yum-yum!!
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 230. Happy Easter. Thanks for the recipe Roger. Moving along nicely. Started working with the Sedona Method. Interesting, Thanks again for the tip Roger.
All the best,
Richard
Day 208
ReplyDeleteIn order to get a day off between exercise sessions, I combined my yoga workout with my home exercises and aerobics. I do a little more on one day, and then do nothing the next day. By having nothing to do on one day, this gives me more time to be a lazy, good-for-nothing bum. Kidding. My real problems are “self-esteem too high” and “illusions of grandeur”.
Best regards,
Roger
FYI....April 12th should of been day 240!
ReplyDeleteBest,
Richard
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 241. Took a break from the gym today. After 5 days straight my body needs a rest. Will get back in their tomorrow!
All the best,
Richard
Day 210
ReplyDeleteYes, it’s easy to drive yourself too hard with physical exercise. I am trying to exercise only every other day, and do nothing physical on the non-exercise day. So, today is exercise day. I will work in a little yoga, a little strength exercises, and a little aerobics, with the objective of doing it all in an hour.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 243. Played in a club tonight. Very tempted to drink BUT did not...
Will Play again tomorrow night. I am pleased that I was for the most part relaxed.
All the best,
Richard
Day 212
ReplyDeleteWhen you are in a club and “tempted to pick up a drink”, it is time to review your reasons for quitting drinking, and reflect on your success of the last eight months. It is time to reinforce your commitment to staying sober. The decision you made 240+ days ago to quit drinking was one of the best decisions of your life. Don’t second-guess it! Stay on the course you have charted.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 245. Thanks Roger~Happy to say I made it-it was easier then the first night. More relaxed/confident, dare say I had a bit of Fun!
All the best,
Richard
Day 213 - 7 months!
ReplyDeleteHere is what I emailed to my young son in the Army, in response to his complaints about things not working as they should:
"Getting frustrated because something doesn’t work the way you think, or know, it should work is WASTED ENERGY, particularly if it is something over which you have no control. We live in an imperfect world, full of imperfect people. If you have a tendency to be a perfectionist, you will experience ENDLESS FRUSTRATION. You will even experience frustration if you ARE in control, because it is extremely unlikely that everyone under you perform perfectly.
Life is easier if you learn to ROLL WITH THE FLOW. Don’t waste energy bemoaning about how something should be. It is what it is. Deal with it. If you encounter a situation that is AFU, and you have no control over the situation, accept the reality of it, and, if possible, come up with a different plan. (If it isn’t possible, then don’t worry about it. That would be wasted energy, because there is nothing you can do about it.)
Here is a Mother Good rhyme, to keep in mind: For every ailment under the sun, There is a remedy, or this is none. It there be one, try to find it; If there be none, never mind it."
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 246. Congratulations Roger!- Thanks for sharing your email to your son. Solid advice. Moving along on this end-spent the day spring cleaning-will do the same tomorrow.
All the best,
Richard
Day 214
ReplyDeleteHere is my Every-Other-Day exercise program, that combines yoga, conventional exercises, and aerobics. This is good to age 70 and beyond. I can do all but the aerobics in about 20 minutes.
Yoga – Sitting, legs crossed
1. Prayer pose – breathe deeply (5)
2. Trunk Rotate – Grind CW (5) & CCW (5)
3. Trunk Roll (Front to back) (10)
4. L-Leg Stretch, hold for 3 deep breaths
(One leg extended in front; opposite leg bent at knee, foot touching inner thigh of extended leg; grab extended foot with both hands; breathe deeply)
5. Breath of Fire (1.5 min)
6. Neck Rotates (10&10)
Yoga – Standing
1. Feet apart, Body Rotate – (swing arms) 15
2. Frog – Bend knees; Touch Toes, Straighten legs (5)
3. Side Stretch – Touch floor to side (5&5)
4. Stand on Toes – Arms extended in front; Breath of fire; (>=1 min)
5. Deep Knee Bends (10)
6. Karate Punches (10&10)
7. Karate Kicks (5&5)
Conventional
1. 2 x 15 hand squeezes
2. 15-lb weights; arms; 10 underhand; 10 overhand
3. 5 & 5 Leg lifts to chest
4. 2 x 15 crunches, lying on floor, lower legs resting on a chair or sofa (to prevent back injury)
5. 2 x 10 pushups
Aerobics
1. Outdoor walk/jog; (about 15 min); or,
2. Gym – Various aerobics, indoor track; swim; (total about 30 min); or,
3. Home trampoline; (20 min)
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 253. All is well. Really enjoying the Spring! 88 today in New York~
All the best,
Richard
Day 221
ReplyDeleteLittle things make me happy. Like, my high-speed internet service is working great again. For months I have been dealing with a slow-down problem on my internet service. Turns out, my router wasn’t working properly. I replaced it today, and the internet service is working perfectly.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 225
ReplyDeleteRichard. I received your email. I’m still sober and feeling good. But I have to stay focused to fight off temptations to drink on my weekends, especially when things are going great. I’m okay when I take nicotine, but the minute I give it up completely, that’s when I think of drinking. Now, I’m using nicotine gum, and that seems to be working for me. I haven’t read my quit drinking log recently, so it is time to read it again. Usually, after I read it, my resolve is strengthened.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 258. Thanks Roger. I hear you on when things are going great! One would think it would be the other way around....
All the best,
Richard
Day 226
ReplyDeleteOn Dog The Bounty Hunter, Dog asked a young lady who is recovering from drug addiction, “What day is it for you, Naleigh?” She said, “One thousand nine hundred sixty-nine.” That works out to be five years and 144 days. Now that’s what I call a large number! I was inspired – made my 226 number seem also insignificant. Well, I’m going to set my sights on the big number, but first I have to make it to 365.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 262. Had a close call tonight~ Thank God I made it home Sober!
Haven't felt like this in a LONG time. Saw an old College friend of mine. We used to run together (drinking etc..) Anyway, I made it Sober!
All the Best,
Richard
Day 231
ReplyDeleteCongrats on staying sober. Based on my past experience, we are in a sobriety danger zone, six months to a year. I’ve fizzled out a few times during this time period – six months, eight months, etc. I have the feeling that if we can fight our way through to the one year mark, our chance of long term success improves tremendously. Celebrating the one-year anniversary will be a huge psychological boost. Then we can say, “Yes, I quit drinking over a year ago. It was a tough battle, making it through that first year, but I’m doing okay now.”
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 270. Moving along. Routine living but I'll take it. I'm staying sober which is the big part of the game right now~ Hope you are doing well Roger-
All the best,
Richard
Day 239
ReplyDeleteLife is okay for me. Exercising every day, staying healthy so far. The idea of traveling came into my mind, and I asked myself, “Is this an excuse to drink again?” After thinking about it, I decided that it is not. I can travel without drinking, especially after remembering some of the disastrous consequences of being drunk in a foreign country. Anyway, after talking it over with my wife, we decided that if she can get some time off, we are going to Europe for a couple of weeks – Spain and Italy. However, at this time her company has suspended all vacations due to the economic situation. Regardless, she is going to make a request. She needs a break, and I need to get out of my cage.
My young son, on leave from the Army and on the way to Korea for a year or more, is stopping by tomorrow. I’m looking forward to his visit.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 276. Things are good. Hope all is well with you Roger~More routine on this end- Work...Nothing to exciting BUT staying sober! 89 days to go to One Year!!!
All the best,
Richard
Day 245
ReplyDeleteRichard, we are going to hit the one-year mark! I have 120 days to go, but have no doubt that I will make it. My wife and I are planning a trip to Hawaii in July, the only time she can get off. We decided against Europe because a lady from here just went there, said it was crowded, busy, stressful, and the people’s attitudes were not good, probably due to the bad economy. So, instead we’ll see what’s going on in Waikiki.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 281. Indeed Roger. Hawaii sounds great~you may not want to come back! I hear it's really beautiful! Doing good on this end, Gym every day-trying to lose that last 10 pds of Fat!!! Not Easy!
All the best,
Richard
Day 250
ReplyDeleteThe problem with making a Herculean effort to get rid of the last ten pounds is, what do you do when it’s off? Keep working your ass off to keep it off? Here is another alternative:
Get a copy of Dr. Dean Ornish’s book, Program For Reversing Heart Disease, and follow his Reversal Diet. You can eat all you want, and you will lose the ten pounds. You’ll probably also add ten years to your life.
In a nutshell, do not eat animal products except egg whites, and non-fat milk and yogurt. That is, no poultry, meats, seafood, or egg yolks. Do not eat any nuts, seeds, avocados, chocolate and cocoa products, olives, or coconut. Absolutely do not eat more than 35 grams of fat daily. Eat all the fruits and veggies you want. Eat all the whole grain products you want. Eat all the legumes you want.
Anyway, I recommend reading the book even if you don’t do the diet. It is full of helpful ideas for people with or without heart disease.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 288. Thanks for the tip on the book Roger~All is well on this end~ 3 more weeks of teaching to go! (until summer break) WE had a party for a good friend of my ladies last night. Didn't even think once about drinking. Curious Roger, you mentioned that the brain/body resets/heals itself after 10 months of sobriety. I have not gone 10 months sober probably since I was 15 years old.....77 days to go to the BIG 1 Year Mark!
All the best,
Richard
Day 259
ReplyDeleteHanging in there. Our vacation to Hawaii in July is booked. Exercising regularly, and staying committed to sobriety. Making it to the one-year mark will be a big accomplishment for me.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 295. Congratulations on your vacation to Hawaii! Really happy for you~Doing well on this end. Just had a friend stay with us for a night who is an alcoholic and got drunk. I never even considered drinking but really felt for him. Hard to watch someone you care about drinking themselves to ......Actually reinforced/strengthened my enthusiasm towards sobriety. (reminded me that i was not missing anything but pain...)
All the best,
Richard
Day 263
ReplyDeleteThe sad truth is that observing other people’s problems with alcohol reinforces our commitment to stay away from the poison. When I see my alcoholic neighbor after he has been drunk all weekend - eyes bloodshot, bloated, skin flushed – I think, “Man, I am damned glad that I’m not in his shoes.” When I see the bums on the street, trying to beg enough money to buy cigarettes and booze, I think, “How sad. What a waste of a person’s life.” I would like to help the people see the light, and get sober. But … I think it is a useless endeavor until they reach the point where they want to be helped. It truly does have to come from within.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 300! Feeling Great! Made it to the Big 3......
Hope all is well~
All the best,
Richard
Day 268
ReplyDeleteCongrats on 300! I just returned from the gym. I am satisfied with my routine now. On Weds, Fri, and Sun I do about 30 minutes of combined yoga/conventional exercises. On Thu, Sat, and Mon I go to the gym for about 30 minutes of aerobics and a few exercises on the pull-up bar. Tuesday is my day off from exercises.
Today, my wife and I went to a park, walked around the lake, and had a picnic lunch. Very relaxing – getting back to nature - taking a break from busy city life.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 310. Just finished my last day of teaching yesterday. So pleased that I have been able to make it through an entire school year without
drinking a drop! Leaving town this morning for a week of r+r with my family. Hope all is well with you Roger~
All the best,
Richard
Day 277
ReplyDeleteRichard, you (we) are doing great! Here is what Teddy Roosevelt had to say about self-discipline:
"The one quality which sets one apart from another - the key which lifts one to every aspiration while others are caught up in the mire of mediocrity is not talent, formal education, nor intellectual brightness; it is self-discipline. With self-discipline, all things are possible. Without it, even the simplest goal can seem like the impossible dream."
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 316. Thanks Roger. Back from a great vacation with my Family.
Amazing how being sober can tip the scales in a family's behavior. Happy to say their was NO DRAMA on this trip! When are you leaving for your trip to Hawaii?
All the best,
Richard
Day 283
ReplyDeleteToday my wife and I went to Sam’s Club. On the way to checkout, my path led past a Coors Light promotion. There was a table with a couple of cases of beer on it, and a lady was there to promote her product. I didn’t even slow down. As I rolled past, I said, “I used to drink a lot of that stuff, but I quit drinking.” She smiled, and knew that I wasn’t a prospective customer. That’s the first time I’ve mentioned to anyone, publicly, that I quit drinking. It felt good.
Hawaii trip is July 15-22.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 320. Moving along on this end. Enjoying some down time. Hit the gym today~love working out!
All the best,
Richard
Day 287
ReplyDeleteI’m starting to feel comfortable telling people that I’ve quit drinking; I think that means I’m starting to believe it. The TV show, American Jail, is an eye opener. Seeing the drunks acting stupid reminds me that I don’t want to be like that.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 322,
ReplyDeleteI hear you on the reality shows Roger~nice reminder of what we are "missing" and why we stopped~
All the best,
Richard
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 324. Happy 4th! Made it through sober....Had a couple of little urges to drink as this WAS a BIG day to party....No harm in a passing thought.....
All the best,
Richard
Day 291
ReplyDeleteThere is no way we can prevent "passing thoughts", but they become less frequent with continued abstention. They should serve as a reminder that we can NEVER let our guard down - not now, not five years from now. For our immediate goal, we ARE going to reach the one-year mark.
I am experimenting with a new diet, the Paleolithic, or Caveman Diet. On this diet I can eat all I want of meats and fish, fruits, veggies, nuts and berries. There is no calorie counting. I cannot eat grains, beans, potatoes, dairy, or sugar. Disallowed foods include peanuts, cashews, corn, soy, wheat, and oats. Allowed foods include honey, olive oil, mustard, and veggies that are fresh, frozen, raw, or cooked.
I think the weight is going to fall off when I stop eating bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, candy and other sugar-laden foods. We’ll see what happens.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 293
ReplyDeleteThere is a good Intervention coming up Monday, July 13th, at 9:00 p.m. PST, on A&E. It is about a middle-aged male alcoholic who is facing his second Intervention after ruining his Real Estate career. I watch those types of Interventions, but skip the hard-drug or eating disorder Interventions.
Things are going well here. I scrapped the Paleolithic Diet because it was boring, and restricted too many of the good things I like to eat.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 333. Having a bit of depression lately. I have always had a rough time in July-(the month my dad passed away) Going to the gym-trying to stay positive and stay focused on productive things!
All the best,
Richard
Day 299
ReplyDeleteMy idea on how to deal with depression, (other than drinking): think about something other than what you are thinking about. Get wrapped up in good book. Books are much more entertaining than movies. Try The Journeyer by Gary Jennings. By the time you finish that book, you will have forgotten that you were depressed.
We’re off to Hawaii on Wednesday, the 15th, back on Wednesday, the 22nd.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 335. Have a GREAT Time in Hawaii Roger!
All is well here. Trying to stay on the program-Diet/excerise. Make it through July!
All the best,
Richard
Day 308
ReplyDeleteBack from Hawaii. It was a great trip, but I had a lot of stress. The thought crossed my mind that I could “fix” it by drinking. Just the thought made me change my vacation activities. I scaled back to much more relaxation. Fortunately, I had a great hotel room on the 25th floor of the Hawaii Prince overlooking a yacht harbor, Ala Moana Park, and the ocean with continuous breakers rolling in from the sea. The scene from my hotel window (that opened, allowing in the ocean breezes), is forever etched in my mind as one of the most relaxing scenes I’ve experienced.
It’s great to be home again. Airline travel these days is rough, especially coming from Hawaii. The Honolulu Airport was disorganized, and the Feds mucked things up with their Agriculture Inspection Stations that I had to cycle through three times.
Anyway, I rolled past day 300 and I’m headed for the one-year mark.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 343. Welcome back Roger. Glad you had a great trip. Sorry about your airline experience- seems like its par for the course these days. Whenever possible, (even though it takes longer) I will take the train or drive. Obviously in your case you had to Fly or take a cruise ship!
All is well-the depression lifted and I am moving forward. The gym and affirmations(Mind Power) and Diet along with selected supplements really seem to work!
All the best,
Richard
Day 314
ReplyDeleteGetting settled back into the routine after vacation. Enjoying the comforts of home. Life is good for me. Today, Tuesday, is the first day of our three-day weekend.
Best regards,
Roger
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI’m having a hard time with my day count – forgetting whether I updated it or not – so I’m forgetting about day count, and only remembering the quit day. (Anything to ease the strain on my overtaxed mind. I already have so much to keep track of – whether I made the monthly mortgage payment, etc.)
Things are going well on my end.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 351. Glad to hear things are well Roger. Had three sugar cookies today-really took me "out" I forget how strong sugar is! All is well though- working out etc...
All the best,
Richard
(Two weeks to 1 Year!)
sep172008
ReplyDeleteInstead of sugar, try honey. Go to YOUTUBE and watch TOSCA HONEY UNCUT. Then compare that with SHAKIRA - SHE WOLF and SHAKIRA - HIPS DON'T LIE.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 358. All is well. Changed up my workout at the gym. Introduced the stairmaster (in place of the bike) also added pullups and an intense way of doing pushups. I have been starting to wonder about the power of anger-(repressed)- and how it manifests itself in our bodies if not released.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteRepressed anger, if not released, can cause SERIOUS health consequences. Do a google search on: “repressed anger” health
and start reading. There is certainly much to be angry in this world. We have to decide if there is anything we can do about the situation that causes our anger, or not. If we CAN do something about it, without causing (further) harm to ourselves, then we should do it. Otherwise, we should LET IT GO. I think our emotions affect our health even more than diet or exercise. Many people who get cancer have problems with anger, resentment, envy, jealousy, etc. Talking with someone might help, but I wouldn’t pay anyone to listen, especially if they might want to prescribe addictive drugs. Patient research on the internet can be very helpful.
It helps to keep this life in perspective. Hell, every living creature on the planet, at this moment, will be dead in 120 years. And here we are, competing with each other, lying, cheating, stealing, killing, torturing, abusing, deceiving, etc. For what? It’s if we are in a big, competitive race to see how fast we can get to … where? Ah. Death. Yes, we are all racing towards death, and many of us are making others miserable along the way. How about if we relax a little, and try spreading a little kindness and goodwill? How about if once a year we forgive everyone who has treated us badly, and start over with a clean slate? It all evens out in the end.
I am still working out a bunch. I purchased a couple of pieces of equipment, an ABS Circle Pro, and removable chin-up bar equipment that installs on a door frame. In fact, I work out so much that my old body stays sore all the time. Tonight, I power-walked outdoors for two miles, and now my hip is sore.
I’m doing well staying sober, and I’m feeling good about it. It doesn’t solve all of life’s problems, but it does get rid of one big problem.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 359. Thank-you Roger~Much appreciated! I have really been digging into affirmations. I have not missed one day for as long as I have quit drinking. Being aware of the anger is a really good thing.
I have been reading and listening to Louise Hay: You can heal your life, The Power is within you etc...Having spent years doing affirmations and working with therapists as well as helping so many, she herself got sick( Cancer) she then realized that she had built a bubble around childhood pain/hurt-it eventually came to the surface as a disease. She was able to complete cure herself! An amazing woman-very inspirational!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI’m glad you mentioned Louise Hay. My wife has a three-volume set of her books – You Can Heal Your Life, You Can Heal Your Life Companion Book, and Meditations to Heal Your Life. I never paid any attention to the books, thinking that if my wife likes to read them, they would probably be too spiritual for me. But now that you mentioned them, I will take a look at them.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 361. I believe Louise hay is talking about the same principles as John Kehoe's "Mind Power". Using selected affirmations to create your desired reality. A way of tapping into "The Law of attraction" I have had a lot of good results!
All the best.
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteRichard, congrats on one year of sobriety! You did it! Counting the days. Overcoming all kinds of situations and temptations. It is a significant achievement, one that will boost your confidence and self esteem. Now, you know you can do it. Good riddance to all of the problems that drinking causes. Use this is as a foundation for a lifetime of sobriety. Think back to one year ago, and look at yourself then and now. I have no doubt that you are healthier, more confident, look better, feel better, and see life in a more positive light. This is the right path.
Quitting drinking is easy, really. All you have to do is … don’t drink! (This sounds easier now than it did one year ago, doesn’t it?) As easy as it sounds, though, we can never let our guard down. I always remember Robin Williams who stayed sober for twenty years, started drinking again, and ended up in rehab. I also remember that I quit for eighteen months once, started drinking again, and, over the years, had some bad experiences because of drinking. This time around, I know that I can never become complacent and think that the battle has been won.
I get a lot of inspiration from some of the TV shows such as The Cleaner, inspired by true events. On Tuesday evening I watched Extreme Interventionist, the story of Warren Boyd, the man behind The Cleaner. Earlier in life he had addiction problems, spent some time in prison, and then cleaned up and has spent two decades helping other people overcome their addictions. If you get a chance, Google him; it’s an interesting story. I am also inspired by some of the Intervention shows, American Jail, Lockup, and Dog The Bounty Hunter.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 365. One Year!
Thankyou Roger-You are next! (Sept 17)
Life is a whole lot better for me than it was 1 year ago.
I have lost 50 pounds- Workout at a gym 4-5 days a week-
Made new friends (sober) Completely changed my diet and no longer have any real anxiety!
NOT ONCE in the least year did I ever wake up in the morning and say" Dam, I really wish I would have gotten drunk last night"!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteHanging in there. Working out. Hip is a little sore from overuse – jogging, etc. I’m switching over to the trampoline for awhile. This ABS Circle Pro machine is good exercise without any knee or hip pounding. I can only stay on it for about five minutes, though; it is strenuous.
I’ve been reading up on Jack LaLanne’s ideas on fitness, etc. He’ll be 95 on September 26th, says he is going to make a 20-mile swim to Catalina Island (off Calif. Coast) on his birthday. He is a big advocate of weight training – spends 2 hours per day exercising, about 75% weights and 25% swimming/aerobics.
Regarding your 50 lb weight loss – that is impressive! About a pound a week. (At the gym, if you’ll pick up 50 lbs of weights, you’ll see what were carrying around 24/7. I’m sure your heart is happy now - not to have to work so hard.)
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 369. Jack Lalanne is really inspirational!
Have you heard of the Bragg Books series. Jack was a student
of Paul Bragg. The Bragg's wrote a lot of great books on health.
I have his book on Breathing as well as Nerve force. Good stuff!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteExercise for tonight is ½ hour walk-jog and a few pull-up/chin-ups on the bathroom door chin-up bar. Here is a quote from Dr. Ross on addictions: “The one-year success rate is abysmally low, but for the few who make it to the one-year mark, the chances for success improve tremendously.” That’s good news, (if you’re in that small group of “made-its”.)
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 376. Doing really well. Everything is starting to come together.
Starting to record a new project next week (can't wait!)
A new type/style of music for me. Original smooth Jazz/Funk...
Music that will connect with a lot more people-
Found a new addiction at the gym-The Stairmaster.......
Tricky at first, now I'm hooked. I really draw a lot of inspiration from going to the gym-I've made some friends(gym) this past year as well. Safe to say the gym has taken the place of bars.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteRichard, I’m happy for you … that you are starting to record a new project, with a new style of music. I think you can attribute this to your new lifestyle, and it is only the beginning of new and exciting things to come.
I’m doing great. I suddenly became enlightened about how to better control my weight – not that it was a big problem, but I haven’t been satisfied with the amount of residual flab from, I suppose, years of drinking alcohol and eating too much, too fast. I’ve been trying to control it by simply counting calories, with the idea that I would automatically eat less. That worked, to some degree, in that I haven’t gained any weight, but I still haven’t lost all of the belly and love handles.
What was the sudden enlightenment? You’ll laugh. The answer is “put a limit on the number of calories consumed”. In my life of retirement, counting calories has revealed to me that I consume, on the average, about 1800 calories per day. This, apparently, is the number I need to “stay the same” for my relatively inactive lifestyle. So, I decided to LIMIT my number of calories to 1500 per day. In a short amount of time, I learned how to do this without being hungry. The secret is: portion sizes, eating slowly, and chewing to the point of liquefying the food. It turns out that I spend about the same about of time, or even longer, eating. So far, I haven’t been hungry, and I am actually coming in under the 1500 mark. I’ll keep you posted – with the results, and whether I can maintain the discipline to continue with this “experiment”.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 381. Roger-keep me posted on your calorie counting and burning the fat. I also have a few pounds that don't seem to want to leave me....
Recording session today (for "Joe" R+B sensation-he is releasing a christmas album this year-I am going to be on three of the songs) and a barbecue/birthday party. Live music there- sat in on the horn. Surrounded by beer... Felt a little strange not being the "life" of the party. Sort of kept to myself. I did play a lot though-the crowd seemed pleased.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteThanks for mentioning Joe. I did a little research on him, and I’m looking forward to listening to his album(s).
Regarding going to the barbecue/birthday party: I can imagine that it was uncomfortable for you, being a non-drinker among a party full of drinkers. I live such an isolated life that I haven’t had occasion to test myself in a similar manner. I can imagine, for example, if I were to go to a party with a bunch of ex-military friends – with everyone drinking and having a ball – that I would feel uncomfortable, and have a tendency to “keep to myself”, just as you did. In thinking about it, however, I think there is a better way – at least something to try. I would put on an act, a performance, and try to act similar to the way I would if I were drinking - that is, laughing and talking and having a good time. This might be a time that would justify nursing an O’Doul’s, but I would be very wary, and limit doing this to “only when necessary for social survival”. Check out the website: http”//alcoholism.about.com/cs/relapse/a/aa000104a.htm, for an article on non-alcoholic beer.
Regardless of how we handle interacting with our drinking friends, we should remind ourselves frequently that we have climbed a mountain - a long difficult climb - and achieved sobriety, and that there is no way anyone is ever going to get us off of this mountain-top. The view up here is great, and we can appreciate it even more when we feel good and have a clear mind.
Best regards,
Roger
sep172008
ReplyDeleteIn thinking about it further, I decided that I'm not going to drink any non-alcoholic beer. I just don't think it would work for me. I have to stick with the Club Soda (or Perrier) and Lime.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 385. Non-Alcoholic beer seems to work for me-The difference is when I'm done drinking the beer(s) I 1)don't have a craving for more and 2)I'm not intoxicated in the least bit. It may not be perfect BUT it is a solution that works for me when I'm surrounded by drinkers/festivity.
I have a friend who is very proud of not drinking for 10 years. She is an A.A. card carrying member. She does get stoned though(pot) every day......She is very surprised that I did not join A.A.- I think the idea is to deal with life with all of our faculties in tact/SOBER at all times-no matter what comes up.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteYes, that is right – sober at all times. Everything is going well on my end. My oldest son is coming to visit the 18th – haven’t seen him for six years. I mentioned to him about six months ago that I had quit drinking, but haven’t said anything since then. He will be surprised that I am still hanging in there. I’ve lost about 15 pounds since I last saw him. He smoked pot for about 20 years, but mentioned a couple of years ago that he had quit. On the other hand, he has also mentioned a time or two about drinking alcohol, so it will be interesting to see what is going on in his life. He has been very successful in life, so I suppose his addiction(s) haven’t hurt him too badly.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 390. All is well. Congrads on the 15 pounds Roger! I went out of town for the holiday weekend- surrounded by drinkers....Had some NA brews and a BUNCH of Chocolate Chip Cookies. (Feel like I put on 15 pounds...) Happy to be back in the gym. Takes me about 3 days of the Warrior diet and working out to get myself back on track!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteAll is well here, too. My one year mark is coming up in five days. A week or so ago, the thought ran through my mind that I should get some booze to celebrate my one-year anniversary of not drinking. Can you imagine? The more I thought about it, the better it sounded to me. This went on for a couple of hours until, finally, I came to my senses. I then spent a couple of hours reviewing why I quit drinking in the first place. After that, I was fine. No problems. I am committed to staying clean and sober. The experience tells me, though, that I am not out of the woods yet, and have to be continually reaffirm my commitment. At the moment, I feel great - and rather proud of my “accomplishment” thus far.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 395. I can imagine Roger-I did a similar thing-thought about it for a minute(for my one year anniversary) . I decided to instead plan a really nice dinner/night with the wife instead. Sure glad I did!
Going strong on this end-beat my old record of Calorie burning on the stair-master. UP to 950cals.! (65 minutes) I am thinking about trying out the "elliptical" at some point. I've been told it burns even more calories-
All the best,
Richard
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 399.
CONGRATULATIONS ROGER! Happy Anniversary! ONE YEAR!
How do you feel?
All is well on this end. Plugging away on my new recording project. The usual ups and downs of creating something-(What to do/keep/can etc...) decided to enjoy the ride/process this time around......A new affirmation I am using to release the need to know and what if's...
"Whatever I need to know is revealed to me and whatever I need comes to me in divine right order".
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteThanks, Richard. I feel great! Made it! One year. Tomorrow I can say, “I quit drinking over a year ago.” To start my second year of sobriety, I ordered the book “Second-Year Sobriety” by Guy Hettelhack – hasn’t arrived yet.
Tonight we are going to a restaurant.
Regarding Stairmaster, 950 cals – it would difficult to achieve those results on an elliptical machine. On the other hand, I’m sure it was difficult on the Stairmaster, too.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 409. Things are going well....Working/teaching some great kids in Brooklyn (music). Working on a new music project. Steady progress.....
My other half quit smoking-went to a doctor who pinches the ear (pressure point) she says she has no cravings etc...Will keep you posted.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteOn Monday evening I tuned in late to an Intervention show, just as the pre-intervention meeting had started. The subject, Jason, was a homeless heroin addict who spent his days panhandling for money to buy drugs.
When Jason arrived at the Intervention meeting the following day, he was a mess. He was dirty, with long stringy hair and a beard. He was adamantly against going to rehab, saying that “he wasn’t ready yet”. But his family was relentless, feeling that they were fighting for his life. After much coaxing, and the counselor and nurse agreeing to let him have one more heroin fix for the plane ride to Florida, he agreed to go. In rehab, he went into detox, and seemed to be doing well, but three weeks into the program, the rehab center kicked him out for receiving needles in the mail. He was transferred to another rehab center. On day 63, a relative came to visit him.
Jason looked like a new human being. He was clean shaven, and neat. He talked about how great he was doing, how great he felt, and so on. He said he had gained satisfaction from helping other addicts while in rehab. Anyone listening to Jason would be optimistic that he was in the process of making a full recovery.
He completed the 90-day rehab treatment and went into a Sober Living Facility. Just as the Intervention show was ending, a message appeared at the bottom of the screen, “One month after going into Sober Living, Jason relapsed, and is now again a homeless heroin addict.
I was shocked and devastated! I got up and started pacing around the room, saying, “That’s so sad. Damn! That’s so sad.”
Well, I am doing much better than Jason. When I rolled through the one-year mark, just as I had anticipated, I gained strength in my confidence and commitment to staying clean and sober.
Richard, I hope things are going well for you.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi
ReplyDeleteDay 413. Glad you are well Roger. I believe that addiction is often times triggered by deep seeded pain that if not addressed could re-appear.
Doing well on this end. Made it through my second week of teaching. Now I've got 4 days off- to work out/relax and enjoy life!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteMy latest diet kick is limiting added sugar to 36 grams per day, sugar alcohol (sorbitol, etc) to 10 grams per day, and cans of diet soda to 2 per day. Additionally, I'm using nicotine gum instead of smokeless tobacco. The net effect of this is 1) I eat all I want, including fat, but do not gain weight, and 2) I am sleeping much better.
My oldest son, on his recent visit, got me started on another kick - bentonite clay. Essentially, it involves eating mud, or volcano ash. I take one teaspoon of it a day, mixed with two teaspoons of psyllium seed husk powder and lots of water. The clay is supposed to rid the intestines of parasites, bad bacteria, etc. I have no idea if it works. Sounds a little stupid, but my son and his wife, both health/yoga freaks, swear by it, so I thought I would give it a try.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 418,
Sounds interesting Roger-Good stuff-( I especially like the sugar part!) Let me know how these work out. My latest kick is ordering a supplement call GB3. It is supposed to help remove toxic metals etc...from the body. http://drlwilson.com/Articles/gb3.htm
Very interesting ideas...
Al the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI came up with the 36 grams of sugar from recommendations by the American Heart Association. For interesting info, google: aha sugar
There are approximately four grams in a teaspoon. Here is an excerpt from one of the google hits:
“Most American women should consume no more than 100 calories of added sugars per day; most men, no more than 150 calories. That’s about 6 teaspoons of added sugars a day for women and 9 for men. The 2001-2004 NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) database showed the average intake of added sugars for all Americans was 22.2 teaspoons per day or about 355 calories.”
I got into this by trying to get rid of belly fat by reducing the amount of insulin-producing foods. After a lot of experimentation, I decided to just cut down on added sugar as opposed to cutting down on all high-glycemic foods (such as bananas, etc). It seems to be working; however, it is a gradual process as opposed to instantaneous.
Regarding cutting down on sugar alcohol, sorbitol, etc., I’m doing this not for weight control, but to improve digestion. I was eating so much sugar-free food, gum, candies, etc., that it was causing bloating, gas, etc. I’m seeing a big improvement after limiting sugar alcohol.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 430. Had a couple of rough days(anxiety etc..) seem to be getting better again. Went to the gym today and yesterday. Really helps. I had not been able to get their for 5 days before that. I need to remember that working out is one of the keys to my success!
Al the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteMust always exercise! I have to force myself to do it, but it is good therapy. When you can’t workout, a minute and a half of the breath-of-fire is a good relaxer-rejuvenator. (Short, rapid breaths, in-out, through the nose.)
I’m having outstanding success with a couple of things I am taking. In the mornings, I start my day by mixing 1 tablespoon of psyllium seed husk powder and 1 ½ teaspoons of bentonite clay in a half liter of water. This combo is like a roto-rooter for my colon – outstanding cleanser. I wait an hour before eating, and then have a smoothie that includes ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper and a ½ teaspoon of hawthorn seed powder, both of which are good for heart and circulation. Anyway, these things in combo with exercising six days a week - alternating between aerobics and strength - I’m feeling really energetic. (My wife, 21 years younger than I, is having a hard time keeping up with me.)
Oh yes, I am still limiting added sugar to 36 grams per day – good for weight control and sleep.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 444. Out of town for a while as my mother in Law passed away.
A bit of a challenge at times but still sober! Diet not so good.....Can't wait to get back into the gym/diet tomorrow.
Best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteIt looks as if I'll make it to age 71 in three days - still sober and doing well. Feeling great, lots of energy - due to the cayenne pepper and hawthorn berry powder, I think.
After more than a year of sobriety I'm finding that I'm still vulnerable when it comes to high-stress situations. Therefore, I'm working on avoiding those situations, and learning how to settle down after becoming stressed. Basically, it comes down to exercise and self-directed relaxation.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 450. Happy Birthday Roger! Sounds like you are doing great. I am seriously considering trying your cayenne pepper/hawthorn berry powder smoothy. Any suggestions on brands or will any do?
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI ordered from www.bulkherbstore.com and I was very satisfied with the order. Here is what I ordered:
2 Hawthorn berries - powder 1/2 lb $5.85 $11.70
>
> 2 Cayenne pepper 90K HU - powder 1/2 lb $4.45 $8.90
>
>
> SUBTOTAL $20.60
> SALES TAX $0.00
> SHIPPING $8.25
>
> ORDER TOTAL $28.85
I use only ½ teaspoon of each daily, so this will last for a long time. The best way to use the powder is in a smoothie, but when I’m bored with that, I mix it with a cup of 100% cranberry juice, and drink it. It’s hot!
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 460. Rode the bike for two hours yesterday. 1 hour push the second relaxed. Ended up burning 1000 calories- 30 miles. Feeling a bit "spacey" today though. Teaching the kids takes a WHOLE lot out of me. Here is the latest vid about the kids.
http://www.veoh.com/browse/videos/category/music/watch/v19331181DzxfWQnX
I seem to be having a return of some anxiety. I HAVE cut out pretty much all sugar(refined) from my diet. Maybe I am having some sort of withdrawal symptoms. At least I am still sober!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteRichard, I truly enjoyed watching the PS-IS 178 video. You can take pride in making a difference in not only those kid’s lives, but also in all of the people whose lives they will influence … and so on. It’s like planting a seed, that will produce more seeds … and so on.
Regarding feelings of anxiety, I’m out of my league here - but here’s how I would tackle the problem. First, I would not seek professional help, or take any medication. I just feel that those guys take your money while you, in effect, analyze yourself, by … talking, talking, talking.
Of course, continuing the physical exercise is important, but even more important, I think, is to get the feeling that you are in control of your life, and that life is not kicking you around like a worn out shoe.
(1) Get precise control of your finances – know where the money is coming and going. Save money, even if you have to do extra work. Pay off credit card debt. As your savings accumulate, you will feel more in control of your life, and have something that is priceless: peace of mind.
(2) Talk to your free analyst. Your analyst is a word processor on your computer. Tell it anything and everything – your plans, aspirations, hopes, fears, problems, etc., as well as ideas on how to make things better. This helps clarify your thinking, and helps you feel more in control of your life. Take steps to ensure that your conversations with your “analyst” are completely private, by either encrypting, disguising, or deleting the file(s).
***
I’m doing great. I’m off my limited sugar diet because I have taken on a new project … again - kicking nicotine. I’m only on Day 11, but I am optimistic, and this time, so far, I’m still controlling my weight, even though I am eating more sugar. I think the daily intake of cayenne and hawthorn powder is helping. Anyway, I’m still aiming for the day when I will be both nicotine and alcohol free, permanently. I’m definitely making progress.
As we approach this holiday season, we have to keep our guard up, but this year, with more than a year of experience under our belt, we know we can do it.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 471. All is well. Thanks for your Post Roger-Good stuff!
Need to hit the gym-overstuffed! Hope you and your family are enjoying your Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI’m hanging in there - started jogging on the indoor track at the gym. This is a better cardio workout than the machines, for me. I do about a mile and an eighth, alternate walking and jogging, and then get on an elliptical machine for 20 minutes. If my knees could handle it, I would really get into jogging.
Today, the 3rd day of our 3-day weekend, we are putting up Christmas decorations.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 480. All is well- Enjoying the Holiday season. SO NICE not to be trapped in the old ways of the "holidaze"!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI agree. The "old ways" are history. It's great to clear-headed and in control. Still working out a bunch - slowly increasing distance jogging.
My young son, in Korea, will be promoted to 1st LT. the 18th. The Army has been great for him, especially not being in a dangerous place - so far.
Best regards
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 490. Went to a christmas party last night. Held my own sober!
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteI'm hanging in there, too. Not as much of a challenge as last year. I did my aerobics tonight on the Urban Rebounder; didn't feel like going out in the cold to go to the gym.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 497. Christmas Eve. Roger, wishing you and yours all the very best.
Leaving for Christmas in Conneticut for a few days. So great to be clear headed/sober! Can't think of a better gift to myself and all of my family.
3 days to 500!
All the best,
Richard
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 500! Feeling Great-Roger, Wishing you and the Family a wonderful and prosperous 2009.
All the best,
Richard
sep172008
ReplyDeleteMade it! It really wasn’t much of a challenge because all we did was stay at home. We had a huge bottle of champagne around the house for a couple of weeks, but I had no interest in it. It was for my wife’s annual custom of bathing in champagne on New Year’s Eve. I don’t know, nor do I think she knows, where the custom originated. Her mom is a native of Naples, Italy, but lives in Bogota, Colombia, and that’s what she does. That isn’t the only custom. Let’s see. My wife wears yellow panties on New Year’s Eve, eats grapes, places money in her pocket and then under her pillow, etc. I don’t pay much attention to things like that. My second wife was an Oriental (Thai), and had all kinds of strange (to me) beliefs and customs.
Well, I am committed to staying clean and sober in 2010. I don’t have as much fun as I did when I was boozin’, but I feel a lot better. I never stop reminding myself that sobriety, for me, is, and probably always will be, fragile. Ending sobriety, after weeks, months, or years is as easy as picking up a drink and tossing it down. This is not going to happen to me. I’ve seen it happen to many people, and every one of them regretted starting drinking again. Although I can’t say that I don’t miss my old friend, booze, I also don’t miss all of the problems associated with the drinking life. I’m enjoying being free of hangovers, having more self-esteem, and being healthier - too much to ever return to the old ways. There! That’s my pep talk for 2010.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 477
ReplyDeleteI'm back to counting days again, after having some "bad" thoughts. I went back and read my drunk-a-log, started counting days again, and now I'm okay - still in it for the long haul.
Tomorrow, I need to get my ass to the gym!
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 510. I hear you Roger.For me the gym/club is one of the key things to staying sober and healthy. We are around other folks who care about their health. I start to feel uncomfortable after 3 days away from working out. Working out burns (in addition to access fat) stress. I think I go to the gym/workout for my mind even more than my body sometimes. With that said, I am really happy about not having a gut etc... Need to burn that Pumpkin/ apple pie left over from the holidays!
All the best,
Richard
Day 480
ReplyDeleteI’m back in the groove – exercising, experimenting with diet, etc. I’m working on my sugar addiction again. When I quit sugar I notice almost immediately that my digestive system works better, and therefore I sleep better. The problem with this addiction is the same as with all addictions – quitting is easy, but staying quit is where the challenge comes in. I just thought of something that might help. I’ll do the same thing I did with the booze, gather everything up - candy, gum, cookies, etc. - and throw it away. There! That’s an improvement over my past actions of gathering everything up and storing in the closet, where it is easily accessible.
I’ve suddenly, at age 71, become concerned about arteriosclerosis. Hello! I should have thought of this 40 years ago. Sugar and nicotine, as well as other things, causes it. Anyway, I’m trying to thin the blood with cayenne, hawthorn berry powder, ginger powder, and garlic – lots of garlic, three cloves per day plus two 650 mg garlic tablets. Ten years from now, I’ll let you know if this helped.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 515. Out of town for the weekend. Went to my brother in laws 50th Birthday party. What a bash. Made it through-lots of time in the hotels health club. I HEAR YOU on the sugar Roger! I am dealing with the same thing. First day today off of sugar-cravings are tricky but I am NOT going to bend. Seems to be a BIG connection between anxiety and ones diet i.e Sugar, processed food etc.....
I need to find recipes for healthy vegetable based meals with some organic protein as well-
All the best,
Richard
Day 483
ReplyDeleteRather not eat ANY sugar, I’ve settled on limiting added sugar to 36 grams per day. The American Heart Association recommends that men eat no more than 150 calories per day of added sugar, which works out to be nine teaspoons or 37.5 grams. There is a write-up on this at www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/08/25/aha.sugar.added/index.html. It is still a challenge to stay under 36 grams, but with a little discipline and resolve I can do it. I did it for about a month a while back, but then one day I binged and ate over 100 grams. But now I am relatively happy with the 36 gram limitation, especially when I tried going zero for a few days.
I OD’ed on garlic! A couple of days ago I ate 3 cloves of raw garlic, took two 650 mg garlic tablets, and had a ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. The next morning, a boil popped up on the side of my neck. I think the garlic in combo with the cayenne was too much for my old bod. I’ve scaled back to 2 cloves and no garlic tablets.
For protein, I’m eating a lot of Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon - skinless, boneless. I get it at a health store. A 6 oz can has 1.5 g of fat, 60 mg of cholesterol, and 39 g of protein. Some of the super-market varieties have more fat and cholesterol. I mix Miracle Whip Lite mayo, (which has a very small amount of sugar), with it – eat it on sandwiches and as a serving with a meal. What I like about the Wild Alaskan Salmon is that it is all natural – not having been fed hormones, antibiotics, etc.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 483
ReplyDeleteFor anxiety, take a look at these two websites, one on meditation and the other on breathing:
www.iampanicked.com/anxiety-articles/anxiety-meditation.htm
www.chinese-holistic-health-exercises.com/anxiety-breathing-techniques.html
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 520. Thanks for the links Roger~ Celebrating my Birthday tomorrow. Looking back on the last year. This was the first year of my adult life (Birthday to Birthday) that I have been sober! Feeling Great!
Watched the movie Food,Inc. tonight- A MUST SEE!
All the best,
Richard
Day 488
ReplyDeleteHere is a relaxation technique that is amazingly effective: Sit on a chair or sofa and do absolutely nothing for 30 minutes. Do not read, watch TV, chew gum, or eat. Nothing. If possible, position the chair such that you are looking at a blank wall.
I discovered this technique by accident. Back in my working days, one day I was ready to go to work 30 minutes earlier than usual. For a moment, I thought about what I could for the 30 minutes, go to work early, read the paper, watch TV, etc. Then I thought, “How about if I do nothing?” So, I sat on the couch, folded my hands across my lap, and stared at a blank wall for 30 minutes. After that, I was very relaxed, went to work, and remained calm and relaxed throughout the evening.
Why did this work? I have no idea. I think because we spend our lives thinking of all the things we need to do, or feeling that we have to be doing “something” all the time, it keeps us tense. FORCING yourself to do nothing calms the body and the mind. Of course, relaxing in a darkened room - while listening to soft music - works as well, but should only be done if it is okay to fall asleep.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 525. Thanks for the tips Roger. Wondering if it is O.K. to take Xanax if I decided to fly....I have always had a very hard time in the past flying-always drank to get through the flights...
All the best,
Richard
Day 493
ReplyDeleteI searched on xanax and “fear of flying”, and saw a few references to doctors prescribing xanax for this, so it’s probably okay. Personally, I would try to go the natural route as opposed to prescription drugs.
Here are a couple of tips:
Natural remedies for the fear of flying
Look into some of the natural herbs that can help relax your body and mind. Herbs like Saint John's Wort, Kava, Valerian, and Passion Flower are known for their relaxing effects.
Drink chamomile tea
Chamomile tea also has relaxing effects on the body. Pack some tea bags with you, and simply ask for hot water once you get on the plane.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 500
ReplyDeleteHo-hum. Just another day. No, wait a minute! This is a milestone - day 500.
Breathe in, breathe out.
Breathe in, breathe out.
Forget this and attaining
Enlightment (or Sobriety)
Will be the least
Of your problems.
I'm still taking it one day at a time.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 533.All is well. Congratulations Roger!!! Are you familiar with Thich Nhat Hanh? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8gEpW7DraI
All the best,
Richard
Day 507
ReplyDeleteThings are okay on my end. My wife is in Colombia for three weeks, so my job is to babysit the cat, watch a lot of TV, stay on the computer a lot, and peruse the newspapers.
I've gotten lazy during the winter months, and practically stopped going to the gym. I still get aerobic exercise. My latest method is to strap a 5-lb weight on each leg, and simply walk fairly rapidly around the condo for 30 minutes. It gets my heartrate up. I think I'll return to the gym when the weather warms up.
I hope you are doing well, Richard. I appreciate your support and the interaction on the blogs during the past 16 months or so. I think it helps us both more than we realize.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 542. I hear you on the gym Roger. Cut back a bit myself. I have however cut out ALL sugar(refined) from my diet. Lots of greens and dark meat via Turkey Lamb etc...Limited amounts of fruit as it contains sugar. Feeling much "calmer" lately. I agree with you on the blog and its support. Thankyou as well roger.
All the best,
Richard
Day 513
ReplyDeleteHanging in there. Exercising regularly - back on track going to the gym. Still battling the nicotine monster, and actually expect to win the battle. Discovered a good website for nicotine, www.whyquit.com, which advocates quitting cold turkey - no gum, no patches, no medication. Haven't decided yet if not drinking alcohol helps or hurts my effort to get free of nicotine. Helps I think.
Now today, I am really getting wacky. I'm laying off caffeine in addition to nicotine and alcohol. I've noticed a benefit alreay. When I took a nap today, I experienced a much deeper sleep than usual.
I can get away with all of this experimentation while living alone, but when mama comes home in about 12 days, it could be a different story.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 552.
Just started using a infrared Suana. We purchased a home sauna. Very Relaxing. I think I am going to leave the gym April 1st. Instead, I am looking forward to walking for an hour 5 days a week in Central park. That with the sauna, vitamins and diet (no sugar) and a lot of steamed veggies should do the trick.
All the best,
Richard
Day 523
ReplyDeleteSounds like an excellent plan. For use during inclement weather, an Urban Rebounder is a worthwhile purchase. It’s a quality product; great for condo/apartment living, too. Even if you live in an upstairs unit, no one knows you are using it.
I just came across a natural, herbal relaxant and anti-anxiety product, Valerin. It is comprised of valerian root, passion flower, and magnesium. This company that I buy supplements from sent me an offer for a free trial. I ordered it, and I’ve tried it a couple of times with good results. Check it out on www.wonderlabs.com, search on Valerin.
My wife returns home on Tuesday. I will be so happy to have her back, not only for her love and companionship, but also so she can resume taking care of her cat.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 580. Happy St patty's day-still going strong!
All the best,
Richard
Day 550
ReplyDeleteSame here. Still going strong. Based on watching Dr. Oz I increased my aerobic workout heart rate to 80% of max, max defined as (220 minus age). He says do this for 20 min, three times per week, and that's all you need. Anyway, I feel much better - stronger.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 600! Feeling strong and loving life-Things are getting better and better.
All the best,
Richard
Day 573
ReplyDeleteCongrats on 600, Richard. Sounds like you are doing great. I'm hanging in there, working on a trip for this summer- maybe Europe. I just sent away for a passport renewal.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 624,
The end of April and into May. All is well-moving forward- starting to see some breakthroughs in my health as well as artistic life-
All the best,
Richard
Day 600
ReplyDeleteYea! Made it to day 600. I have the 2-yr mark in sight. For me, it isn’t easy. After boozin’ for over 50 years, I still miss it. But I don’t miss all of the negative things about it. After coming this far, I don’t see any problem in staying on course. My wife is launching a business, and I am getting wrapped up in that.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 634.
Congratulations Roger! Next stop for us.....The "700 club".
All is well here. Cleansing my body, recording a new project.
All the best,
Richard
Day 609
ReplyDeleteAll is well here, too. I'm very busy with my wife's business venture. It feels like I have a job, which is good - something to do, finally.
I'm on another experimental diet. I call it the 38/38 diet. No more than 38 grams of added sugar daily, and no more than 38 grams of fat daily. It's tough, especially the limit on fat. I have no doubt that the diet will work, IF I stay with it. Seems like that's the key to just about everything - self-discipline.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 700! Been a while since posting. All is well. Living life. Working on finishing a new recording project-gonna be good! Also started using Hemi-Sync-(3 weeks now on Waves1) very relaxing. Subtle but powerful.....
All the best,
Richard
Day 672
ReplyDeleteCongrats on 700, Richard! Things are going well for me, too. My son is back from his Army tour in Korea – headed for Ft. Jackson, SC. I’m still experimenting with the diet. I’m not eating meat or poultry, but still eat eggs and fish. Of course, I’m still going to the gym regularly. Life is good. Let me know when your new album hits the market.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 730/2 Years!!!!
Feeling really great! Life is good!
Best,
Richard
Day 700
ReplyDeleteCongrats, Richard! If you need any encouragement to keep it going, just look in the mirror, and compare your appearance with what it was 2 years ago. I know for me, I weigh less and my complexion is better.
I just saw Al Pacino on 60 minutes - said he quit drinking 30 years ago after having a serious problem with alcohol.
On our anniversary day, it is time to reflect and commit to staying sober - alert, healthy, and free of embarrassment and hangovers.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 731
ReplyDelete2-years! Life is good.
Best Regards,
Roger
HI,
ReplyDeleteDay 766.
Congrads Roger!
Time flies!
Best,
Richard
Day Count Wrong.....I am at 768.
ReplyDeleteBest,
Richard
HI,
ReplyDeleteDay 777.
Into Fall-started taking Maca and "Brain On" -like them both. Helping with clarity-focus.
Best,
Richard
Day 746
ReplyDeleteThings are going well. Still experimenting with diet. The latest is Dr. Ornish's Reversal Diet - vegetarian, very low fat.
Next milestone number: 1000 days
After that, the number I have in mind is 1860, the number of steps from the ground floor to the 102nd floor of the Empire State Bldg. I take one step a day; slowly climbing to the half-way mark.Question is, what do I do when I get to the top? Enjoy the view, of course.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 819. Still going. Putting the finishing touches on a new recording. Able to avoid the peer pressure of doing shots with my recording engineer and producer in the studio.....Glad I did-
Still investigating brain chemistry-looking for non-drug therapies to help keep dopamine and serotonin levels balanced also motion sickness. (inner ear) I still am dealing w some anxiety issues. At a certain point I will need to have this dealt with(helped). Thought I could do this naturally-Brain chemistry is powerful stuff. I would rather not have to start taking SSRI's BUT I am moving forward with my life-One way or the other. I need to start Flying and touring again soon. Can't wait 20 years..........
All the best,
Richard
Day 797
ReplyDeleteAfter two years and two months, I almost caved in! Incredible! It came about because 1) I am home alone (my wife is visiting her mom in Colombia), and 2) I have been trying to quit nicotine while she is gone. When the thought of drinking ran through my mind, I immediately abandoned trying to quit nicotine. However, I did stay off the smokeless tobacco, and resorted to nicotine gum.
I considered the thought of drinking to be a crisis, of sorts, and took steps to fight it. I went back and read my 124-page drunk log, and wrote in it extensively. I’m okay now. I am, again, affirming that quitting drinking alcohol is THE priority in my life, which comes before everything else. I’ve come too far, and fought too hard to give it up now.
I’ve also had a minor health crisis. What the hell, I’m 72 years-old! Anyway, about a month ago, my cardiovascular fitness seemed to disappear suddenly. I could hardly walk 100 yards without being exhausted, and feeling a tightness in my chest. Did I hightail it to the doc? No, that’s not my nature. I’ll exhaust every means of trying to solve it myself before seeking medical assistance. So … I immediately went VEGAN – no animal food, AND I am struggling to keep the diet low-fat – minimizing nuts, seeds, oils, etc. Well, after just a month on my new diet, I am seeing some improvement! Yea! I hit the gym last night, and noticed a definite improvement on the elliptical machine and the stationary bike. I am optimistic that I will see further improvement by staying on the low-fat, vegan diet.
In summary, I’m going to do everything in my power to keep from going back to anesthetizing my mind and body with alcohol. I’ve had a tendency to take my sobriety for granted, but the mini-crisis changed that. Maintaining my sobriety is, again, the priority of my life.
Richard, it sounds like you are dealing with lots of issues. My recommendation is to make an ironclad resolution to deal with the issues without drinking alcohol. You can do it! It is because of your sobriety that you’ve had the energy and ambition to do the things that may be causing some stress. You may want to slow down a little, and be sure that you allocate time for the basics: gym, yoga, walking, diet, etc. You have a long life in front of you. Live it with energy and sobriety and a clear mind.
Best regards,
Roger W.
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 829. Message received Roger, Thankyou.
I have been working a lot on my "issues" tried many many different therapies through the years......Convinced I have brain chemistry out of sync (i.e Dopamine, Serotonin) The only thing I know of that works with this is SSRI's. Rather not have to become a drug addict (pharmaceuticals)....
Will keep pushing forward-
Best,
Richard
Day 836
ReplyDeleteTwo hours to mignight, New Year's Eve. Committed to sobriety in 2011. I was proud to host two of my children during the holidays - proud of my sobriety.
Best regards,
Roger W.
HI,
ReplyDeleteDay 871. Still going...Started to check out visualization as yet another possibility to help release old patterns. Next big milestone is 1001 days!
Best,
Richard
Day 867
ReplyDeleteThe sign-on here changed - had to register a new email/password. In the heat of the moment, I specified CDLV, which is an abbreviation for my wife's business name, as my ID - should have put Roger. Anyway, it's me. Doing fine, working through the stress of getting my wife's business off the ground. The worst is over, and I'll make it.
This is from James Christopher, author of How to Stay Sober: "Don't put your sobriety on auto-pilot. Reflect DAILY on your reasons for quitting drinking, and your commitment to stay sober." He has been sober for 26 years, so apparently it worked for him.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 900! Doing good-Had about enough of the winter though!
60 days to April 1st.....then it's smooth sailing for a while. Looking forward to laying in the sun! Glad you are doing well Roger-
Best,
Richard
Day 888
ReplyDeleteCongrats on 900, Richard. This is what I wrote in my Sobriety Log:
----
"After 2 years 5 months of sobriety, I still have “I would like to get drunk” thoughts, and I think I know the reason why. I’m an alcoholic, who drank for 55 years! What do you expect, duh?
Remember this: every alcoholic who has relapsed after a long period of sobriety, regrets it. If I relapsed, I would enjoy the hell out of it for a short period, and then I would feel totally stupid for relapsing. I would feel like the biggest failure on the planet.
Repeat daily, “It is worth fighting the battle to stay sober, and not worry about DUI, prison, divorce, or death due to drinking.”
----
I'm doing okay. Staying active with gym, exercise at home, etc.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 900
ReplyDeleteYea! Made 900! It was easy - nothing to it. I have my sights set on 1000.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDAY 987.
All is well. 13 days to the big 1000! I have rejoined the gym and continue to investigate/search for optimal health. A few interesting links:
1) http://liverandgallbladderflush.com/
2) http://www.ener-chi.com/radio.htm
3)cancer: The Forbidden Cures (Massimo Mazzucco)
http://www.tpuc.org/content/cancer-forbidden-cures
All the best,
Richard
Day 960
ReplyDeleteYep! Closing in on 1000. All is well. My young son, in the military, is home on leave, heading to Afghanistan for a year. I'll be counting the days until he is back in the U.S. again.
Heading to the gym.
Best regards,
Roger
Hi,
ReplyDeleteDay 1001!
Made it! Feeling great~ it has been quite a journey these past 1000 days.
Continuing to search and explore...........
All the best,
Richard
Day 1000
ReplyDeleteMade it! Yes, it has been quite a journey. I continue to lament the old days of "having fun", but I also rejoice in feeling great. I attribute three things to my success in this journey:
1. Exercise, going to the gym.
2. Writing in my personal journal.
3. Blogging here, knowing that someone else is on the same path and having success.
I am going to continue the journey. Next milestone: the 3-year mark September 17th.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 1004
ReplyDeleteThe relaxation CDs by Dr. Lawlis, accessible in the text of the following link are very good:
http://www.drphil.com/articles/article/173
Best regards,
Roger
Day 1096
ReplyDeleteMade my 3 years! Hanging tough. Feeling good.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 1130
ReplyDeleteStaying sober, and feeling good about myself. I attribute much of my success in my marriage to the fact that I have quit drinking alcohol.
Best regards,
Roger
Day 1200
ReplyDeleteStaying sober in 2012. Happy New Year!
Best regards,
Roger
Day 1300
ReplyDeleteLooks like I’m all alone out here. Well, let me write myself a congrats message for making 1300:
“Rog, you’re doing a hellva job. My kids are starting to take notice. Like, “Hey, my dad stopped drinking!” I’m sure they’re thinking, “If he can do it, after 55 years of boozin’ all around the planet, then probably anyone could do it.”
I’m committed to 1400 - can’t say beyond that.
Best regards,
Roger